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[Superficial infections caused by Microsporum canis in humans and animals]

Carolina Segundo1, Alejandrina Martínez, Roberto Arenas

  • 1Sección de Micrología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, UNAM, México D.F., Mexico.

Revista Iberoamericana De Micologia
|October 2, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Microsporum canis (M. canis) infections are common zoonotic diseases in humans and pets. This study found M. canis to be the most frequent dermatophyte in both human and animal cases examined.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Dermatophytosis
  • Zoonotic Diseases

Context:

  • Dermatophytic infections caused by Microsporum canis (M. canis) are globally prevalent and zoonotic.
  • Understanding the frequency of M. canis in human and pet populations is crucial for public health.
  • Previous studies highlight the significance of M. canis as a cause of dermatophytosis in companion animals and humans.

Purpose:

  • To determine the prevalence of M. canis infections in human patients and companion animals.
  • To analyze the demographic data and affected areas in human M. canis infections.
  • To identify the frequency of M. canis among dermatophyte isolates from dogs and cats.

Summary:

  • A total of 46 clinical cases of M. canis infections were recorded in humans (26 female, 20 male), with common presentations including tinea capitis and tinea corporis.
  • Human infections ranged from 2 to 60 years of age, with a predominance in women.
  • In animals, M. canis was the most common dermatophyte isolated. From 461 dogs, 4.98% yielded dermatophytes, including M. canis. From 68 cats, 38.23% of isolates were M. canis.

Impact:

  • This research provides epidemiological data on M. canis infections, aiding in the understanding of its transmission dynamics between animals and humans.
  • Findings can inform public health strategies and veterinary practices for the control and prevention of M. canis zoonoses.
  • Highlights the importance of diagnosing and treating M. canis in companion animals to reduce human exposure and infection rates.

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